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Homicide in the Nordic countries.
1Institute of Psychiatry, De Crespigny Park, London, United Kingdom.
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Homicide rates have significantly increased across Nordic countries over the past two decades, with notable links to alcoholism and drug abuse. Domestic homicides and non-domestic offenses have also seen changes, particularly concerning females.
Area of Science:
- Criminology
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Homicide patterns in Nordic countries are under-researched.
- Cross-national comparisons are limited by data availability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and compare homicide studies in Nordic countries.
- To identify trends and contributing factors in Nordic homicide over the last 20 years.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing homicide research in Nordic nations.
- Comparative analysis of findings across different Nordic countries and with international data.
- Discussion of specific cases, such as Greenland, and associated psychiatric/mental health issues.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in homicide incidence across all Nordic countries in the last two decades.
- Alcoholism and drug abuse are prominent factors in homicide offenses.
- An increase in non-domestic offenses and a decrease in male homicide-suicides, contrasted with female involvement in domestic homicides.
Conclusions:
- Nordic homicide rates have risen dramatically, influenced by substance abuse and changing offense types.
- Sociocultural factors, particularly alcohol and drug abuse, are critical in understanding Nordic homicide.
- Further research into mental health and specific circumstances, like those in Greenland, is warranted.